This talk emphasises Victoria's fortuitous beginnings, with firstly a pastoral and then a mining boom. Contrasting groups of people and interests had an epic struggle for the power to control development. There was almost a civil war in the 1870s as the predominant goldrush generations tried to break the constitutional stranglehold of conservatives in the Legislative Council.

Radical liberalism, protectionism, emergence of trade unions, development of Marvellous Melbourne in the 1880s, Sydney-Melbourne rivalry, cultural depths, trends in religion are some of the topics to be covered, concluding with why Melbourne is so often cited as Australia's most livable city.

Weston Bate, Flying Officer during WWII, will facilitate a "making history in the round" session where we invite former Services medical personnel to talk about their experiences during war and peace.

"Making history in the round" becomes a wonderful informal way of gathering the stories of the quieter makers of history - come and participate in this intimate and enjoyable history making experience. The memories will be recorded and stored at the RHSV.

The event will take place at the RHSV in the Officers' Mess of the former Army Medical Drill Hall, an army site from 1866-1988.

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Welcome to RHSV News

The Royal Historical Society of Victoria was formed in 1909 and is a community organisation committed to collecting, researching and sharing an understanding of the history of Victoria.

With the support of a large number of volunteers, the RHSV provides a full program of activities (e.g. lectures, seminars, excursions and exhibitions) for the benefit of members and the general public. The Society publishes a bi-monthly newsletter, a reviewed journal and books of historical interest.